I’ll be honest. The first time I made the White Pizza, I had my doubts. I was on a mission to satisfy a late-night craving, using only what I had in the fridge. One bite into that creamy, garlicky slice, and I was hooked. The rich blend of cheeses never fails to impress, turning a simple weeknight meal into a gourmet experience. It's now a go-to favorite in my home, always a delightful surprise for family and friends.
If you’re after a pizza that feels indulgent yet easy to whip up, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. With its combination of crispy crust and luscious cheeses, it promises satisfaction for everyone at the table. Whether for a casual dinner or a special event, the Best White Pizza is here to elevate your dining experience. Let’s dive in!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Cheese Medley – The combination of ricotta and mozzarella creates a luscious texture that melts in your mouth, offering a delightful contrast to the crust.
- Quick and Simple – With minimal prep and bake time, you can enjoy gourmet pizza in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
- Customizable Goodness – Feel free to experiment with toppings like spinach or artichokes. This pizza is a blank canvas for your creativity.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Be it a cozy family night or a backyard gathering, this white pizza suits every mood and setting, impressing guests and loved ones alike.
- Bold Flavor Profile – The mix of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick, taking this pizza from ordinary to extraordinary in one bite.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons, divided. Adds richness and depth to the crust and helps it crisp beautifully.
- Fresh Pizza Dough – 16 ounces (store-bought). Provides a soft, chewy base that holds all the delicious toppings.
- Shredded Mozzarella – 2 cups. Melts beautifully, giving that classic pizza stretch and mild flavor.
- Ricotta Cheese – ⅔ cup (whole milk). Contributes creaminess and richness to every slice.
- Garlic – 1 clove, minced. Introduces aromatic notes that elevate the flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes – ⅛ teaspoon. Adds a gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Salt – ¼ teaspoon. Enhances all the flavors, making every ingredient sing.
- Fresh Basil – 6 leaves. Offers a burst of freshness and a hint of herbal flavor.
- Pecorino Romano Cheese – 2 tablespoons, grated or finely shredded. Adds a sharp, salty finish to the pizza.
How to Make The Best White Pizza
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Remove pizza dough from the fridge. Place 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium bowl. Add pizza dough to bowl and toss in oil. Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour to warm up.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450 degrees.
Step 3: Mix the Cheese Filling
In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta cheese with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Set aside.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Punch the dough down with your fist to remove air bubbles. Place the dough on a large baking sheet and stretch it with your fingers until it is about ¼ inch thick, leaving a slight edge for the crust.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the crust, leaving an inch clear from the edges. Then, dollop the ricotta cheese mixture on top in six equal portions.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Basil
Lay basil leaves all over the pizza. Top with Pecorino Romano cheese and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil on top.
Step 7: Bake the Pizza
Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust turns golden brown.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Let the pizza cool for 2 minutes. Slice into 8 even pieces and serve hot.
Pro Tips from My Kitchen
✓ Use Room Temperature Dough – Allowing pizza dough to warm up makes it easier to stretch, resulting in a perfectly shaped crust.
✓ Experiment with Herbs – Fresh herbs can enhance flavor. Try adding oregano or thyme for a unique twist that elevates the pizza.
✓ Keep It Simple – Less is more. Don’t overload your pizza with too many toppings, or the crust may become soggy.
✓ Check Your Oven Temperature – An accurately preheated oven ensures a crispy crust; consider using an oven thermometer to confirm it’s at the right heat.
✓ Let It Cool Slightly – Giving the pizza a moment to rest enhances the flavors and makes it easier to slice without making a mess.
Frequently Asked Questions about White Pizza
Certainly! You can mix in cheeses like fontina or gouda for more flavor.
Yes! Simply substitute regular dough with a gluten-free alternative, and you're all set.
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and toppings in advance. Assemble it just before baking for optimal freshness.
Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or artichokes would be wonderful additions for extra flavor and texture.
White Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- 16 ounces Fresh Pizza Dough
- 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella
- ⅔ cup Ricotta Cheese
- 1 clove Garlic
- ⅛ teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 6 leaves Fresh Basil For garnishing.
- 2 tablespoons Pecorino Romano Cheese Grated or finely shredded.
Instructions
Preparation
- Remove pizza dough from the fridge. Place 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium bowl. Add pizza dough to bowl and toss in oil. Let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour to warm up.
- Preheat your oven to 450 degrees.
- In a mixing bowl, blend ricotta cheese with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and salt. Set aside.
- Punch the dough down with your fist to remove air bubbles. Place the dough on a large baking sheet and stretch it with your fingers until it is about ¼ inch thick, leaving a slight edge for the crust.
Assembly
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the crust, leaving an inch clear from the edges. Then, dollop the ricotta cheese mixture on top in six equal portions.
- Lay basil leaves all over the pizza. Top with Pecorino Romano cheese and drizzle the remaining tablespoon of olive oil on top.
Baking
- Place the pizza in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the crust turns golden brown.
Serving
- Let the pizza cool for 2 minutes. Slice into 8 even pieces and serve hot.
Notes
- Experiment with toppings like spinach or artichokes for a personal touch.
- Let the pizza cool slightly for easier slicing.
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